Counterbalance Forklift Training
Anybody who utilizes a counterbalanced forklift should have training, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations. Training includes a combination of classroom training and hands-on driver training. Refresher training is required occasionally in order to keep operator skills up to date. OSHA does not indicate a required minimum time for either the classroom or hands-on training.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load using a counterbalance built into the truck. The tines move up and down parallel to the body of the truck. The forks do not pivot. Operators driving counterbalanced forklifts must have training about the specific trucks they would be using and in the same workplace surroundings.
Classroom Training Courses
The forklift operator would be taught the basics of the model of forklift they would be utilizing in classroom training. They will learn info about the forklifts specific things such as height, weight and load capacity. The driver would learn the basics of fueling or charging the forklift, depending on whether the engine is battery-powered or gas-powered. Safety procedures regarding the specific forklift, like for instance how to walk safely around the lift truck, would be covered.
Supervised Driving
Driver training would be supervised to make sure that the operator will know how to properly use the counterbalance lift truck. This practical training will take place in the same kind of setting wherein the operator would be working. The driver will train with the same sorts of nearby buildings and other structures on the same type of terrain, as well as similar vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Refresher Training
Counterbalance forklift operators are required by OSHA to take a periodic refresher training course. However, there are no specifications as to the frequency at which an operator requires this training. However, for regular drivers, refresher training programs must include classroom-style training.